Best Dispersed Camping near Pollock Pines, CA

Join the fun near Pollock Pines. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Pollock Pines. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Pollock Pines, California (25)

    1. Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    Kyburz, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 644-2324

    "Pulled off Union valley road and set up camp with our Rooftop tent. Little cold up here in November but made for some great pre-snowfall camping!"

    "Luckily there is a lot of Dispersed camping all the way around the lake! So beautiful, and the lake is really warm in the summer"

    2. Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off

    2 Reviews
    Grizzly Flats, CA
    9 miles

    "I was there on weekdays so was pretty much alone the whole time but even if the main spot is occupied there’s a couple of dirt roads that lead to more areas to camp."

    3. USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Kyburz, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 622-5061

    "The coordinates listed on the app are simply for the entrance to the dispersed camping. There are infinite amounts of primitive roads to drive down and find camp."

    "The area is spacious and conveniently located not too far off the main road, making it easy to access without feeling too isolated."

    4. Iron MT. Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Eldorado National Forest, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (916) 324-4442

    "The ground is very flat and many areas are paved with gravel. At 7500 feet above sea level, the view is wide and the scenery is beautiful, especially the sunset view."

    "The Mormon Emigrant Trail can be accessed from there (East side, going West to Sly Park.) You can hear the Highway a little, but nonetheless very peaceful area."

    5. Silver Fork River Camping

    1 Review
    Kyburz, CA
    19 miles

    "We were at another location up the road that was listed on Dyrt and the Forest Service Fire Team came up and started talking and they suggested this site and its awesome."

    6. Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Twin Bridges, CA
    24 miles
    Website

    "Standard dispersed camping on national forest land. Paved main road with dirt roads and areas for camping branching off. Plenty of room. Some areas have beautiful views of strawberry valley!"

    "Great location. Not sure it would be a good location if it's been raining. May hear the occasional road noise"

    7. Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    17 Reviews
    Echo Lake, CA
    35 miles

    "Easy access and reasonably good road quality make it very RV friendly - I would say that it was at least 75% RVs/Trailers. Beautiful views of the valley and hills to the east."

    "Easy to see right off the road with plenty of campsites down either side of a nice dirt road. Rocky and steep road access to Scott’s lake, but easy camping on the edge of the valley."

    10. Bear Valley Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Sierraville, CA
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 994-3401

    "Bear valley is my favorite place to go camping, the most you get close to the top of the mountain, the most curvy the road is, so be prepare."

    "Lots of trails to ride your bike and walk."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Pollock Pines, CA

75 Reviews of 25 Pollock Pines Campgrounds


  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 8, 2023

    USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    Endless Possibilities

    The coordinates listed on the app are simply for the entrance to the dispersed camping. There are infinite amounts of primitive roads to drive down and find camp. I stayed at N38.768811• W 120.238630° — on top of a peak that offered 360° views with sunrise and sunset right from my tent. At this specific sight, there are no overhead trees. Despite being primitive, the roads are well kept, even if you have a small SUV. It could get slightly tricky with a car. I stayed here for 7 days (10/31-11/6) and only saw one other person on the primivite roads. The above coordinates are about a 6 mile drive in from US50. You will see a campground on your right about 5 miles down when driving in, about a mile further down the road you will come up on the dirt road leading you up the mountain.

    A couple of notes:

    1. You are required to have a permit for any day/overnight use in Eldorado, including this area. They can be easily acquired at recreation.gov
    2. Cell phone reception is very spotty, in and out of a couple of bars throughout the drive in. — AT&T coverage. At the above coordinates, there were 2 bars of low grade coverage allowing basic texts to send. Not enough service for web browsing or sending photos via text.
    3. This area has been widely burnt by fires last year. There are still large areas unburnt. You will find yourself going in and out of them while driving.
    4. KEEP IT CLEAN — this area is immaculate and besides dug out fire pits, human trace is non-existent. Leave it cleaner than you found it, pick up your trash (and other’s if you see any), respect the area and it will respect you.
    5. NO CAMP SERVICES — There is no trash service or even dumpsters at the signed entrance; pack it in pack it out. There are no restrooms in the area either.
  • Jacqueline G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Dispersed USFS

    Worth the climbs to get here!!

    This is full wilderness camping off the main road between hope valley and the blue lakes. I had no problem getting in with my 30ft bus towing a jeep but the road is steep and winding for about 7 miles to the pull off. There were a lot of other campers for Labor Day weekend but the rest of the time there was no one around. Jugs of water can be filled at the campgrounds about 5 miles in each direction. PLEASE NOTE: There are prolonged climbs to get here (up to about 8% grade) but my bus did fine. Slow and steady and you’ll be fine. Also WATCH THE WEATHER! Rain can cause spots of the road in to get washed out a bit and deep puddles can appear. There are loads of rocks and fallen trees around to fill in holes if needed. If you’re moderate to high clearance rig you’ll be fine just be mindful. The Blue Lakes are just down the road for swimming, boating, kayaking etc and lots of amazing 4x4 trails. Rivers for fishing and endless hiking and biking. Elevation is 8300ft so definitely a bit high. The trees help with the air however. Not nearly as tough as the high desert of Utah (Zion or Brice) but just take it easy if you’re not used to high altitude.

  • Ciara W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Echo Summit Dispersed

    Not dispersed camping

    This spot is national forest, and overnight camping is not allowed. We had a knock from someone with the forest service the next morning who was very kind and let us know that overnight is not allowed.

    Look up lakes and forest in this area on google — not many places allow dispersed camping

  • Tim R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed

    Standard Dispersed Camping

    Standard dispersed camping on national forest land. Paved main road with dirt roads and areas for camping branching off. Plenty of room. Some areas have beautiful views of strawberry valley!

  • Shane C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2022

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed camping with campground layout/feel

    Camped here for a night in early October. Easy access and reasonably good road quality make it very RV friendly - I would say that it was at least 75% RVs/Trailers. Beautiful views of the valley and hills to the east. Most sites are obvious, with a driveway and stone fire ring. We like a more "dispersed" feel, but felt comfortable. 

    There are no services - bring all the water you will need and practice "leave no trace." This goes for your waste (human and animal) as well. I wish I could say that we didn't see any dog waste or "TP Flowers" but we did. Not a significant amount, but any is too much.

    The place was pretty much full, but still good vibes and quiet neighbors. Very close to Hwy. 88, so road noise and campers coming in looking for a spot after dark. Gets quiet later in the evening.

    Overall, a nice spot.

  • Raymond B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 15, 2024

    USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    Overnight stay

    We recently spent a night at this campsite and found it to be perfect for a quick overnight getaway. The area is spacious and conveniently located not too far off the main road, making it easy to access without feeling too isolated.

    There are plenty of sites to choose from, catering to different preferences. However, we recommend taking some time to survey the land before setting up camp, as some spots are slightly sloped.

    A huge plus is the gas station just about 5 minutes down the road. It’s well-stocked with all the convenient store items you might have forgotten at home, making it easy to grab any last-minute necessities.

    Overall, it was a delightful stay. Just remember, always practice Leave No Trace principles—pack out what you pack in!

  • A
    May. 26, 2021

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Sweet Spot

    Easy to see right off the road with plenty of campsites down either side of a nice dirt road. Rocky and steep road access to Scott’s lake, but easy camping on the edge of the valley.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2024

    Bowman Lake Dispersed

    Lake side Campsites

    If you are looking to be near the water and no service, this is perfect. The rough road in I believe must keep some folks out but the lake is amazing.

  • Azizah T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2021

    Loch Leven Lakes

    Quiet dispersed camping

    We backpacked up to the high loch levens lake where we found many available campsites. But also a lot of the nice view spots were occupied since we didn’t start our hike up early, we started at 5:30pm. The middle lake is very large and had many beautiful spots to camp. But we headed to the upper lake since a lot of day hikers go to the middle lake and don’t always pack out what they pack in. All the sites are very dispersed and you have so much privacy. We saw some people even camping on the boulders! It was very serene and quiet with very respectful campers. The trail up is a bit confusing if you don’t pay absolute attention to where you are going. You can find some orange markings or stacked rocks that help you stay on the path. Reaching our destination was amazing. We swam in the lake and napped in our hammocks. I will say that there was a lot of mosquitos. Even with bug spray I left with 7 bites. But, it’s the outdoors what do you expect? Overall very beautiful area to camp!


Guide to Pollock Pines

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pollock Pines, California, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Dispersed campers should check out USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

  • This site offers a spacious area with easy access from the main road, making it ideal for a quick getaway.
  • Campers can enjoy the freedom of choosing from various sites, but it's wise to scout for the best flat spots before setting up.
  • A nearby gas station provides convenience for last-minute supplies, enhancing the overall camping experience.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Pollock Pines, California

Scenic spots for dispersed camping enthusiasts

  • For those seeking a picturesque setting, Iron MT. Dispersed provides gorgeous views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing retreat.
  • Campers can find unique landscapes at Granite Chief Wilderness - Dispersed, but be aware that the access road may require a 4x4 vehicle.
  • If you're up for a bit of adventure, Bear Lake Rd. Dispersed offers a rugged drive with beautiful scenery, making it a rewarding destination for those willing to navigate the rocky terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the regulations for dispersed camping in Pollock Pines?

Dispersed camping in the Pollock Pines area follows standard Forest Service regulations. Camping is limited to National Forest land, and not all areas permit overnight stays—Echo Summit Dispersed specifically prohibits overnight camping. Most sites require a valid California Campfire Permit for any fire or cooking device. Campers must practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and camp at least 100 feet from water sources. Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed follows standard Forest Service protocols with camping allowed only in established areas. Stay limits typically range from 14-21 days within a 30-day period. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pollock Pines?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Pollock Pines in El Dorado National Forest. USFS Silver Fork Dispersed offers numerous primitive roads with spacious camping areas, including spots with 360° views. Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping provides easy access with clearly visible sites off a dirt road. Other options include Packsaddle Pass in El Dorado National Forest, Hope Valley, and various pull-offs along Mormon Emigrant Trail. Note that not all forest areas permit overnight camping—Echo Summit Dispersed specifically prohibits overnight stays. Always verify current regulations with the Forest Service before setting up camp.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites near Pollock Pines?

Dispersed camping sites near Pollock Pines are primitive with minimal to no amenities. Silver Fork River Camping has three established sites with basic stone fire rings but no other facilities. Bowman Lake Dispersed offers lakeside camping but zero amenities and no cell service. Most areas feature informal fire rings created by previous campers, but you'll need to bring everything else including water, toilet supplies, and trash bags. No potable water, toilets, picnic tables, or dump stations are available. Some sites have natural features like nearby lakes or streams, but water must be filtered or treated. Prepare for self-sufficient camping with all necessary supplies.